Many factors have to be looked in order to accurately answer this question. First and foremost: is this a medical problem, or a behavioral one? An examination of your cat and a lab analysis on the urine by your vet will help determine the proper course of action. The purpose of this article is to help the pet owner develop observational skills to help determine why Fluffy isn't going to the litterbox.
How is
the general health of your cat?
Have you noticed any changes in appetite, thirst, frequency of going to
the litter box?
Has your
cat recently recovered from illness or surgery?
If your cat associates the litter box with pain in any way, s/he may avoid
the box even after the initial pain/difficulty has passed.
Where
is the litter box located?
Cats prefer privacy and quiet -- a litter box in a high-traffic, noisy
location may be avoided in search of quieter locales. Cats also don't
like to sleep or eat near the litter box.
Does your
cat have fresh water and a high-quality diet?
Fresh water should be available at all times, and your cat should be on
a high-quality maintenance diet appropriate for age/weight. Special urinary
diets are available, but should be only used under the advice of a veterinarian.
Is your
cat neutered*?
Non-neutered cats will tend to urine mark their territory more than neutered
cats, thus neutering will reduce urine marking. However, all cats can
urine mark, including females. (*neutered = castrated males, spayed females)
Is your
cat exhibiting excessive licking of the genital area?
Urinary tract infections can be painful, burning, and even cause blockage
in male cats. (NOTE: urinary blockage is a life-threatening condition
- if you cat is unable to produce urine, see a veterinarian immediately.)
Have you
caught your cat 'in the act' of voiding outside of the box?
If so, take note of your cat's posture while voiding -- is your cat is
backing up to vertical surfaces, such as walls or furniture and voiding
(a.k.a. spraying) or assuming a more 'natural' squat position? The former
may be more indicative of a behavioral marking problem.
Has the
litter or litter box been changed lately?
Assuming that your litter box cleaning/maintenance schedule was previously
acceptable for your cat, has the brand of litter been changed or the type
of box different (i.e. hooded box vs. open)? Cats often have a preference
for a litter and box type - changing this may invite behavioral problems.
Text: Copyright © Janet Tobiassen Crosby. All rights reserved.
